A depressive disorder is an illness that involves
the body, mood, and thoughts. It affects the way a person eats
and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one thinks
about things. A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing
blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness or condition
that can be willed or wished away. People with a depressive illness
cannot merely "pull themselves together" and get better. Without
treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years. Appropriate
treatment, however, can help most people who suffer from depression.

Symptoms of Depression

Not everyone who is depressed or manic experiences
every symptom. Some people experience a few symptoms, some many.
Severity of symptoms varies with individuals and also varies over
time. Some of the key indicators are included below and you can
utilize an online screening program to which Muskingum University subscribes.

Loss
of interest or pleasure
in hobbies and activities
that were once enjoyed,
including sex

Decreased
energy, fatigue, being "slowed
down"

Difficulty
concentrating, remembering,
making decisions

Insomnia,
early morning awakening,
or oversleeping

Appetite
and /or weight loss or
overeating and weight
gain

Thoughts
of death or suicide;
suicide attempts

Restlessness,
irritability

Persistent
physical symptoms that
do not respond to treatment,
such as headaches, digestive
disorders, and chronic
pain

Mania

Abnormal
or excessive elation

Unusual
irritability

Decreased
need for sleep

Grandiose
notions

Increased
talking

Racing
thoughts

Increased
sexual desire

Markedly
increased energy

Poor
judgment

Inappropriate
social behavior

If you are suffering from any of these problems
or know of someone who is then feel free to come in or call Muskingum
University Counseling Department and we can set you up an appointment
and sit down and talk. Our telephone number is (740) 826-8091.